Reference Index - Disease & Conditions

Cervical dysplasia

Definition:

Cervical dysplasia is the abnormal appearance of cells on the surface of the cervix when they are looked at underneath a microscope. Although this is not cancer, it is considered a precancerous condition.

Dysplasia that is seen on a Pap smear is described using the term squamous intraepithelial lesion (SIL). These changes may be graded as:

Low-grade (LSIL)

High-grade (HSIL)

Possibly cancerous (malignant)

Dysplasia that is seen on a biopsy of the cervix uses the term cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN), and is grouped into three categories:

Most cases of cervical dysplasia occur in women ages 25 - 35, although it can develop at any age.

Almost all cases of cervical dysplasia or cervical caner are caused by human papilloma virus (HPV). HPV is a common virus that is spread through sexual contact. There are many different types of HPV. Some types lead to cervical dysplasia or cancer.

The following may increase your risk of cervical dysplasia:

Becoming sexually active before age 18

Giving birth before age 16

Having multiple sexual partners

Having other illnesses or using medications that suppress your immune system

Smoking

Symptoms:

There are usually no symptoms.

Signs and tests:

A pelvic examination is usually normal.

A Pap smear that shows abnormal cells or cervical dysplasia needs further testing.

An HPV DNA test can identify the high-risk types of HPV that are known to cause cervical cancer. This may be done:

As a screening test for women over age 30

For women of any age who have a slightly abnormal Pap test result

Treatment:

It can take 10 years or longer for cervical dysplasia to develop into cancer.

Treatment depends on the degree of dysplasia.

Mild dysplasia (LSIL or CIN I) may go away on its own. You may only need careful observation by your doctor with repeat Pap smears every 3 - 6 months. If it lasts for 2 years, treatment is usually recommended.

Treatment for moderate to severe dysplasia or mild dysplasia that does not go away may include: